As part of the refuelling mission over the Pacific Ocean, three KC-10 Extenders transferred fuel to the US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornets and the USAF KC-10s.

6th Air Refueling Squadron instructor boom operator technical sergeant Kenneth Cook said: “The KC-10 is essential to the air-force because we can transport any piece of cargo, equipment and personnel to anywhere in the world, any continent, any country.

“We’re able to refuel those jets who have to go answer the mission whatever it may be, or engage in humanitarian response.”

During the mission, five C-17 Globemaster III military transport aircraft were also refuelled by KC-10 Extenders.

The C-17s were carrying more than 300 coalition paratroopers in support of Exercise Ultimate Reach, a strategic airdrop mission.

“Not only can we get gas, but we have a huge cargo compartment capability as well. KC-10s can bring everything mobility represents to the table.”

The KC-10 tanker’s combined six fuel tanks carry more than 356,000 pounds of fuel in-flight.

The ability to switch between using an advanced aerial refuelling boom or a hose and drogue centreline refuelling system allows the tanker to refuel a variety of the US and allied military aircraft interchangeably.